Guidelines on the Participation of Gender Minorities in Training Center Operations of Badminton Finland

Gender Minorities

Gender minorities refer to individuals whose biological, social, or psychological gender do not align with each other. Gender minorities include, for example, transgender, non-binary, transvestite, agender, and intersex individuals.

These guidelines are based on the Non-Discrimination Act, international sports policies, and practical principles of fair play.

TRAINING CENTER & NATIONAL TEAM OPERATIONS

1. Safe and Respectful Atmosphere

National team and training center operations respect the identity of every player and ensure that there is no tolerance for discrimination or harassment.

At the start of training sessions, the group's shared values – respect, equality, and safety, can be clearly communicated.

Inappropriate behavior (e.g., discriminatory comments, misgendering) will be addressed immediately and constructively.

2. National Team Training and Camps

In badminton, competition takes place in the following categories: Men's Singles, Women's Singles, Men's Doubles, Women's Doubles, and Mixed Doubles.

Clear criteria have been established to guide player selection.

For adults, eligibility is based on legal gender. Transgender women and transgender men must provide Badminton Finland with proof of legal gender recognition. Eligibility may also be granted on a case-by-case evaluation.

Gender-neutral groups or event formats are used when necessary.

For minors, eligibility is determined primarily based on the player's self-experience and discussions with their legal guardians.

3. Practical Procedures

Names and Pronouns: The player's preferred name and pronoun are always used.

Locker Room and Accommodation Arrangements: Individual solutions are made taking the player's wishes into account while respecting privacy.

Travel and Tournaments: Travel and accommodation arrangements ensure safety and comfort for everyone.

Training: Coaches, chaperones, and other national team staff receive training on gender diversity, equality, and the prevention of discrimination. Clubs and organizations are encouraged to draft their own equality plans or incorporate these principles into existing practices.

4. Confidentiality and Privacy

Information related to gender identity is confidential and will not be shared without the person's consent.

Issues related to a player's gender identity or medical information are always handled with strict confidentiality.

Information required solely to meet official competition rules may be submitted to international governing bodies, subject to the player's consent.

5. Feedback and Development

Opportunities to provide anonymous or confidential feedback regarding experiences will be created.

Badminton Finland appoints a designated contact person for equality matters whom players can reach out to.

Situations are evaluated on a case-by-case basis together with the player, coaching staff, and association management when needed.

Operations are monitored and developed annually as part of the association’s equality plan.

Participants' views are listened to and used to improve operations.

6. Actions in Cases of Harassment and Discrimination

All allegations or suspicions of harassment or discrimination will be processed without delay in accordance with the association's ethical guidelines.

A low-threshold reporting channel is provided.

Support is guaranteed for the player, and referrals are made to bodies such as the Center for Integrity in Sports (FINCIS / SUEK) if necessary.

INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION & MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS

In connection with potential changes in eligibility, it must be noted that for international competitions and national representation duties, the regulations of the Badminton World Federation (BWF) and the rules of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) regarding gender categories are strictly followed.